IT has been a good year for some in the country’s entertainment circles, but a turbulent year for others with highs and lows.
BY SHARON SIBINDI
Bulawayo’s entertainment scene was dominated by South African acts such as Sophie Ndaba, Black Motion, Heavy K, Black Coffee, DJ Lady Cream, Mpumi, DJ Cndo , Fiesta Black, Oskido, Big Nuz , Casper Nyovest, AKA, Durban NYTS , Mafikizolo, DJ Fresh, DJ Tira, DJ Pepsi, Bobsta, Stiff, YZEE, B Soul, Dan Tshada, Patricia Majalisa, Mkhululi Bhebhe, MJ and Tonny Digital leaving an indelible mark.
Local stars Jah Prayzah, Killer T, Shinso, Judgment Yard, Roki, DJ Dee Nosh, DJ Stavo, Takesure Zama Ncube, Sulumani Chimbetu, and Seh Calaz also brought their music to the City of Kings.
However, the arts industry started on a low note as it was facing the usual annual hard times that afflict all sectors of the economy and the general working class in January.
Bulawayo music promoter DJ Joe Tha Og said business was presently very low as most revellers usually have little or no disposable income during this period.
Bulawayo born-songstress Berita was one of those honoured in South African awards as she walked away with the Songwriter of the Year award.
Bulawayo’s dazzling all-female ensemble, Nobuntu, toured Europe making it big, as they collaborated with two artistes in Germany, who were charmed by the group’s style.
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The multi-talented five-member outfit got a chance to perform in Passau.
Apart from music, there was also a lot for fashion enthusiasts as a number of shows were held in the city. Matabeleland Fashion Week (MFW) showcased fashion and cultural trends of the people of this region in November at Fazak Home and Hyper in Woodlands.
Created and founded by Amanda Mtangadura, an image consultant, in 2015, the fashion show featured designers who each showcased a collection of 15 looks.
This year’s MFW partnered with Fazak Home and Hyper, Boom City Advertising, HQ, High Mount Lodge, Brooks Coffee, Co-Zim Functions, Ingwe Studios, Casino Bar, Mashies Coffee Shop and Suzuki.
South Africa’s high fashion and trendy clothing brand, Spunk Clothing owner and head designer Millicent Mulalo Nkangane was the guest designer at the show.
Spunk prides itself in being the future of fashion in Africa by establishing stores and studios all over the continent.
Bulawayo’s gospel choir Vocal Extraordinaire put up a dazzling show as they recorded their live DVD album.
Vocal Ex, made up of soloists from various denominations, shared the stage with Eric Moyo, Eagle Life Choir, upcoming a cappella group Shalom and Family Voices.
The year saw Bulawayo hosting the Ibumba International Festival, which featured several music genres in one of the most well-co-ordinated events held in the city.
The festival featured music, dance, film, literature, art, poetry and theatre performances at venues dotted around Bulawayo although the main venue was Stanley Square in Makokoba.
This year’s Kalawa‘s homecoming brought in chaotic scenes and poor logistics.The homecoming gig was supposed to be the most celebrated Bulawayo show as the curtain comes down on 2015.
The gig was held at Queens Sports Club on Sunday night, but it was overshadowed by chaotic scenes as revellers struggled to gain entry into the show.
